mineral
Amethyst
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Purple, violet, lavender; Luster: Vitreous/glassy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs
- Color
- Purple, violet, lavender
- Luster
- Vitreous/glassy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Purple, violet, lavender; Luster: Vitreous/glassy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous or metamorphic rock cavities (geodes) through hydrothermal activity or cooling lava. The purple color comes from irradiation of iron impurities within the quartz structure.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry, for decorative ornaments, and widely collected by mineral enthusiasts for metaphysical or display purposes.
Geological facts
Amethyst is the birthstone for February. Its name comes from the Ancient Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', as it was believed to protect the wearer from drunkenness.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic purple color and lack of cleavage (it breaks like glass). Look for it in geode-rich areas like Brazil, Uruguay, or Arizona. Collectors should check for evenness of color and clarity.
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